As Alabama continues to battle rising drug misuse and overdose deaths, the Medical Association of the State of Alabama is urging residents to safely dispose of expired, unused or unwanted prescription medications during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 26.

One of the designated collection sites throughout the state will be at Orange Beach's Waterfront Park, located at 26425 Canal Road. Here, residents can safely discard their medications, ensuring they don't end up in the wrong hands.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, held each April and October, is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing the risk of prescription drug misuse, accidental poisoning, and overdose. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its partners, including police departments and pharmacies, will be collecting tablets, capsules and other forms of prescription medications across Alabama during the event.

In April, Alabamians disposed of over 4,100 pounds of medications, and the upcoming event offers another opportunity to reduce the risk of drug misuse. Dr. Amanda Williams, president of the Medical Association, emphasized the importance of safe disposal efforts.

"Safely disposing of old or unneeded prescription drugs can prevent a gateway to addiction or an overdose," Williams said. "Participating in Take Back Day is a simple yet important step we can all take to help protect our loved ones and communities from the dangers of substance abuse."

The initiative is critical as Alabama faces a growing opioid crisis. According to the Alabama Department of Public Health's Emergency Medical Services database, the state recorded 9,313 overdose-related incidents in 2023.

Residents are reminded that Take Back Day collection sites will not accept syringes or illicit drugs. Liquid medications, such as cough syrup, must remain sealed in their original containers with caps secured to prevent leakage.